The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has started the public comment period for the proposed widening of State Route 20 in Newton and Rockdale counties.

Project Manger Neal O’Brien said the job will entail the widening of the roadway from two to four lanes for 4 mi. from State Route 212 to Honey Creek Road. In addition, the east-west portion of SR 20 will be relocated to the south.

Right of way acquisition is set for 2008 and construction is scheduled to begin in 2011, although that may be moved up a year.

It is expected to cost between $10 and $12 million in today’s dollars.

O’Brien said traffic has increased significantly on this road over the years. The 2011 daily traffic count is expected to reach 50,000, he said.

This project was first conceptualized in 1992, but O’Brien said it was shelved by the department as it prepared the state’s roadways for the 1996 Olympics.

“Public involvement is a critical element of the Georgia DOT road planning process and it can make a big difference in the development of the projects,” said Spokeswoman Vonda Everett. “The Georgia DOT strongly believes that since its road projects are intended to serve the people, the ideas and preferences of these people are important.”

The public comment period ends Jan. 24. CEG Staff